If memory serves me correctly the " Fire Box" already has XLR microphone inputs. Why not just use those? Use your funds for better software and plug-ins. Of course an external microphone preamplifier/equalizer/compressor/limiter is not a bad idea while cutting tracks but what's the point in the Fire Box, if you're not going to use the microphone inputs? Doesn't sound like you did your homework? You don't want to plug one microphone input into another microphone input, it is nonproductive.

Go back to your room
Ms. Remy Ann David

I see what you are saying about using the xlr on the firebox but what kind of plugins or software are you talking about? Right now I am using Nuendo and Reason and I am still not satisfied with the quality of sound I am getting. That's why I figured I could try out the threeq and see if there is a difference.

The Groove Tubes brick preamp would be a step up...really sweet sounding.

This is a good example of why I usually advise against buying an ADA interface with preamps all in one box.

That said, I haven't heard the Firebox pres so can't comment on them specifically, but I would look at my mics and micing technique before spending more money on another cheap preamp.

I have a Firebox also. Just because the unit has mic pres doesn't mean you have to use them. Your can use a premium mic pre and plug in into the line ins which would bypass the mic pres on the firebox. As far as recomending a really good one, I couldn't really say as I only record bass and guitar into my computer so a really high end pre-amp isn't really all that important to me. However as I have your attention; do you find that the Firebox is somewhat noisy? I have mine plugged into a Mackie mixie and a qsc power amp into my studio monitors and even though I run all the gain stages at unity I get a highend whinning sound comming directly from the Firebox. Have you noticed the same thing?